Roadtrip!
We headed north, to unchartered territory by the Clan du Ryder. Far into the northern province, we passed through Musanze and wound up to the Virunga Lodge. Sitting right between two lakes and a few volcanoes, this gorgeous mountaintop spot had views galore. It also had narrow roads with steep dropoffs, but Ginger was up to the challenge.
Did I mention it had a dance area/helicopter pad? Ryder was psyched.
On our way to trek the gorillas, we bumped into Jimmy, who was then able to complete his tour of the Baker family. He helped us out tremendously. Thanks, Jimmy!
After posing with his new mime troupe, Garrett and I were off into the wilderness. Across a number of fields, then up the steep climb into the mist... (wait for it)... where the gorillas live, of course.
We reached a resting spot, then were instructed to leave everything except for cameras. Then, we crept into the bush to find the gorilla group we'd been looking for.
The group was 9 strong, with 2 silverbacks. At around 400 lbs., these low-rumbling leaders are a sight to behold. Very calm and stoic, they rarely faced us directly, but obviously knew we were there. We stayed nestled in this group for around an hour, sometimes within a few feet of the younger ones. Incredible only begins to describe it.
After our time with the new friends, we had a break for some lunch. Further on down the path, the gravesite for Dian Fossey...
Later that day, a special performance awaited us up on the dance area/helicopter pad. With a cloud-draped volcano in the background, the local villagers put on a show with drumming, singing and lots of dancing.
The sun closed out another wonderful day up in Volcanoes National Park.
Ryder found some time to contemplate the day.
Up early the next morning, it was time to head out. Thanks Virunga Lodge!
After a brief interlude of some 'free-painting' time by the resident artist, Unka G took the day for his own and traveled out east to Akagera Park. With my trusty camera at his side, Garrett came across a gang of wildlife that we'd not yet seen in the park. Looks like he had a blast!
spiral-horned antelope
impala
zebra and topis
African buffalo
fish eagle
saddlebill stork
grey-headed kingfisher
Hippo!
Baby Zebra!
Then, the lone giraffe. The following shots are a testament to Garrett's patience and the learning curve of using the camera.
Um, there's a giraffe on your back.
Garrett Baker, super adventure explorer. We hope you had a great time in Rwanda. Thanks for stopping by!